In a landmark recognition of Odisha’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy, the sacred wheels of the three chariots used during the annual Puri Rath Yatra will soon be installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The initiative is expected to further promote the centuries-old Jagannath tradition at the country’s highest constitutional residence.
The announcement was made by Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, who revealed that the proposal received the approval of President Droupadi Murmu during a recent meeting at Lok Bhavan in Bhubaneswar.
President Murmu Approves Proposal
Speaking about the development, Padhee said he placed the proposal before President Murmu, who readily gave her consent and described the initiative as a matter of immense pride for the people of Odisha.
With the President’s approval, the sacred wheels from the three iconic Rath Yatra chariots will be transported to New Delhi and permanently displayed within the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex.
Wheels from All Three Chariots to Be Displayed
The wheels to be installed belong to the three majestic chariots used during the annual Rath Yatra:
- Nandighosh – the chariot of Lord Jagannath
- Taladhwaja – the chariot of Lord Balabhadra
- Darpadalan – the chariot of Goddess Subhadra
These sacred wooden wheels are regarded as powerful symbols of Odisha’s centuries-old Jagannath culture and are expected to serve as a lasting representation of the state’s religious and artistic traditions at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Unique Tradition of the Puri Rath Yatra
The world-famous Puri Rath Yatra follows a unique centuries-old tradition in which brand-new wooden chariots are constructed every year using specially selected timber.
After the conclusion of the annual festival, the three chariots are dismantled in accordance with long-standing temple rituals.
Traditionally, a portion of the wood from the dismantled chariots is used as fuel in the sacred kitchen of the Shree Jagannath Temple, while several important wooden components are auctioned among devotees who consider them spiritually significant.
The installation of the sacred wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan gives these revered components a new national platform while preserving their cultural and religious importance.
Another Milestone for Odisha’s Cultural Heritage
This is not the first time Odisha’s rich heritage has found a place within the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises.
In October 2024, four sandstone replicas of the iconic Konark Sun Temple wheels were installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. The installation was aimed at showcasing India’s architectural brilliance and Odisha’s artistic traditions to visitors from across the country and abroad.
The addition of the Rath Yatra chariot wheels further strengthens the presence of Odisha’s cultural symbols at the presidential estate and highlights the growing national recognition of the state’s timeless heritage.
The proposed installation is expected to become a significant attraction for visitors to Rashtrapati Bhavan while serving as a reminder of the spiritual, cultural and historical importance of the annual Rath Yatra, one of India’s most celebrated religious festivals.
